Pull-out trash cans simplify kitchen waste management by hiding unsightly bins inside cabinets while keeping them within easy reach. Rev-A-Shelf manufactures some of the most popular cabinet trash systems, offering models that fit different cabinet sizes, household needs, and installation preferences.
This guide walks you through choosing the right Rev-A-Shelf trash can system, understanding the installation process, and making the most of your investment in a cleaner, more organized kitchen.
What Is a Rev-A-Shelf Trash Can System?
A Rev-A-Shelf trash can is a pull-out waste management system designed to mount inside kitchen cabinets. The system includes metal slides or rails that attach to the cabinet interior, supporting one or more removable waste bins that glide out when you open the cabinet door and stay hidden when closed, creating a streamlined appearance while improving kitchen workflow.
Why Install a Pull-Out Trash System
Freestanding trash cans consume valuable floor space in kitchens where every square foot counts. A cabinet-mounted system reclaims that space while keeping odors contained behind a closed door.
Pull-out systems also make sorting recycling, compost, and trash simpler by housing multiple bins in one location. You can toss waste without bending as much or moving a can away from surrounding walls.
These systems work especially well in kitchens with an island or peninsula where you want waste disposal close to food prep areas but out of sight from adjacent living spaces.
Types of Rev-A-Shelf Trash Can Configurations
Rev-A-Shelf offers several mounting styles and bin arrangements to match different cabinets and household routines.
Door-Mount Systems
Door-mount models attach directly to the inside of a cabinet door, with the trash bin swinging out when you open the door. These work well in narrow cabinets where there isn’t room for a full pull-out frame.
The weight of the bin and waste can strain cabinet hinges over time, so you may need to upgrade to heavy-duty hinges. Check that your cabinet door is solid wood or reinforced material rather than thin particleboard.
Bottom-Mount Pull-Out Systems
Bottom-mount systems install on the floor of the cabinet with metal slides that extend fully, letting you access the bins without reaching into the cabinet. These handle heavier loads than door-mount versions and distribute weight to the cabinet floor rather than the hinges.
Most bottom-mount models fit standard base cabinets measuring 12, 15, 18, or 21 inches wide. Verify your cabinet’s interior width after accounting for the thickness of side panels, as actual interior space is narrower than the cabinet’s face measurement.
Single Bin vs. Double Bin Models
Single-bin systems hold one large container, typically 35 to 50 quarts, suitable for households that don’t separate waste types or have limited cabinet width. Double-bin configurations offer two smaller containers, often 27 to 35 quarts each, allowing you to split trash from recycling or compost.
Consider your household’s waste volume and sorting habits before choosing. A family that generates significant recycling may find a double-bin system more practical, while a single-bin setup provides maximum capacity for general trash.
Top-Mount Systems
Top-mount pull-outs attach to the underside of the countertop or the top rail of the cabinet frame. These are less common but work when cabinet floor space is occupied by plumbing or a garbage disposal.
Installation requires secure blocking or a sturdy cabinet rail, as the entire weight of the bins and waste hangs from above.
Measuring Your Cabinet Space
Accurate measurements prevent ordering a system that won’t fit. Measure the interior width of your cabinet from one side panel to the other, not the door width or exterior cabinet measurement.
Also measure the interior depth from the cabinet back to the inside edge of the face frame, and the interior height from the cabinet floor to the underside of the countertop or any cross-support. Note the location of hinges, door hardware, and plumbing that might obstruct the slides or bins.
Rev-A-Shelf provides minimum cabinet dimensions for each model in their specification sheets. Compare your measurements to those requirements, leaving at least a half-inch clearance on each side for smooth operation.
Choosing the Right Bin Capacity
Bin capacity affects how often you need to empty waste. A household of one or two people may find a 35-quart bin sufficient for several days, while a family of four or more typically needs 50 quarts or larger for daily trash.
If you cook frequently or entertain often, consider sizing up to reduce the number of trips to an outdoor bin. Conversely, smaller bins encourage regular emptying, which helps control odors in warm weather.
Remember that recycling bins fill quickly with bulky packaging. If you choose a double-bin system, you might allocate the larger bin to recycling and the smaller one to trash, depending on your household’s waste stream.
Installation Overview
Most Rev-A-Shelf systems require basic hand tools and moderate DIY skills. You’ll typically need a drill, screwdriver, tape measure, level, and the hardware included with the unit.
Installation steps vary by model, but the general process involves securing the mounting brackets or slides to the cabinet interior, attaching any door-mounted components, and testing the slide mechanism before loading the bins. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions specific to your model.
Preparing the Cabinet
Empty the cabinet completely and remove any existing shelving or hardware that will interfere with the new system. If the cabinet currently houses plumbing for a sink, confirm that pipes won’t block the slide path or bin placement.
Wipe down the cabinet interior to create a clean surface for mounting brackets. Check that the cabinet floor is level; if it slopes significantly, the bins may not slide smoothly or could roll open unexpectedly.
Mounting Bottom-Mount Slides
Position the slide rails according to the template or measurements provided by Rev-A-Shelf. Use a level to ensure the slides sit parallel to each other and perpendicular to the cabinet face, or the bins will bind during operation.
Drill pilot holes to prevent splitting the cabinet material, then fasten the slides with the screws provided. Soft-close mechanisms, if included, usually require additional adjustment after initial installation to control closing speed.
Installing Door-Mount Systems
Attach the mounting frame to the cabinet door using the provided screws, centering the frame both vertically and horizontally. The bin should hang at a height that makes tossing waste comfortable without the door swinging shut under the added weight.
Test the door’s swing after installation. If it closes too quickly or won’t stay open, adjust the hinges or install a soft-close adapter to prevent slamming.
Testing and Adjusting
Slide the bin carriage in and out several times without waste to confirm smooth operation. Check that the bins clear the cabinet door, face frame, and any interior obstructions throughout the full range of motion.
If the system includes a lid or automatic door-opening mechanism, verify that it activates correctly when you pull the cabinet door open. Make any fine adjustments to screws, brackets, or slide positions before placing the bins into service.
Common Installation Challenges
Cabinet interiors often contain surprises that complicate installation. Uneven floors or walls can throw off slide alignment, while hidden plumbing or electrical lines may limit placement options.
If your cabinet has a center stile (a vertical support between two doors), you may need a model specifically designed for full-overlay or face-frame cabinets. Some Rev-A-Shelf systems include mounting kits for these configurations, but not all models accommodate them.
Older cabinets with particleboard or thin plywood sides may not hold screws securely. In these cases, use longer screws that reach solid framing, install backing blocks, or apply construction adhesive along with screws for added strength.
Maintaining Your Rev-A-Shelf System
Wipe down the bins weekly with warm soapy water to prevent residue buildup and odors. Remove the bins from the slides for thorough cleaning, letting them air-dry completely before reinstalling.
Inspect the slide mechanism every few months for debris, food particles, or sticky residue that can slow movement. Wipe the slides with a damp cloth and apply a small amount of silicone-based lubricant if they begin to stick.
Tighten any loose screws in the mounting brackets or slides as soon as you notice wobbling. Regular use can gradually loosen fasteners, especially in cabinets made from softer materials.
If your system includes a soft-close feature, adjust the dampening mechanism according to the manufacturer’s instructions if the bins begin to slam shut or close too slowly.
Liner and Odor Control Options
Use trash bags or liners sized to fit your specific bin capacity to contain leaks and simplify emptying. Rev-A-Shelf bins often have rolled edges or grooves that hold bag tops in place without clips.
For odor control, sprinkle baking soda in the bottom of the bin beneath the liner, or attach adhesive odor-absorbing discs to the inside of the cabinet door. Empty bins regularly, especially in warm weather or if you discard food waste.
Avoid storing highly perishable or wet waste in the bins for extended periods. Compost scraps and food waste decompose quickly, so a daily emptying routine prevents odors from spreading through the cabinet.
Coordinating with Cabinet Design
Pull-out trash systems work best in base cabinets positioned near the sink or main food prep area, reducing the distance you carry scraps and packaging. If you’re planning a kitchen remodel, allocate a cabinet close to the dishwasher and range for convenient access.
In kitchens with a butler’s pantry or secondary prep zone, consider installing a second, smaller trash system to avoid crossing the room repeatedly. This is especially helpful during meal prep or cleanup for large gatherings.
Match the finish of any visible hardware or handles to your existing cabinet pulls for a cohesive look. Some Rev-A-Shelf models include color-coded bins or lids that can complement your kitchen’s palette, though most remain out of sight when the cabinet is closed.
When to Hire a Professional
If your cabinet requires significant modification, such as cutting into a sink base to reroute plumbing or removing permanent shelving secured with dowels and glue, a cabinet installer or carpenter can complete the work safely. Improper cuts can weaken cabinet structures or damage countertops.
Kitchens with frameless European-style cabinets or custom millwork may need specialized mounting hardware that isn’t included with standard Rev-A-Shelf kits. A professional familiar with your cabinet brand can source the correct adapters and ensure a secure fit.
Cost Considerations
Rev-A-Shelf trash systems range in price depending on bin capacity, mounting style, and features like soft-close slides or lid mechanisms. Entry-level door-mount models typically cost less than bottom-mount systems with heavy-duty slides and multiple bins.
Factor in the cost of any additional hardware you may need, such as upgraded hinges for door-mount systems or blocking material for non-standard cabinets. If you hire a professional for installation, labor adds to the total expense.
Compare the long-term value of a durable, smooth-operating system against cheaper alternatives that may wear out quickly or require frequent adjustment. A well-installed Rev-A-Shelf unit can function reliably for many years with minimal maintenance.
Alternatives to Rev-A-Shelf
Several other manufacturers produce cabinet trash systems with similar features. Brands like Knape & Vogt, Hafele, and Richelieu offer pull-out options that may fit your cabinet dimensions or budget better.
Compare the weight capacity, slide quality, and warranty coverage across brands. Read reviews or view installed examples to assess durability and ease of use before making a final decision.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If the bins won’t slide smoothly, check for obstructions along the slide path, debris on the rollers, or misaligned mounting brackets. Loosen the bracket screws slightly, realign the slides parallel to each other, and retighten.
Bins that tip forward when pulled out usually indicate that the slides weren’t installed level or that the bin carriage isn’t seated properly on the rails. Verify that the slides are parallel and the bin snaps securely into the mounting clips.
Doors that won’t close fully after installation may mean the bins extend too far into the cabinet opening. Adjust the slide position deeper into the cabinet or choose a model with a shorter depth profile.
Final Thoughts on Rev-A-Shelf Trash Systems
A pull-out trash system improves kitchen organization and frees up floor space while keeping waste out of sight. Rev-A-Shelf’s variety of configurations and sizes makes it possible to find a model that fits most standard cabinets and household needs.
Measure carefully, follow installation instructions, and maintain the system regularly for years of reliable use. Start by identifying the cabinet you’ll convert, then choose a model that matches your available space, waste volume, and sorting preferences.
Continue improving your kitchen’s function and appearance by exploring more helpful Home and Garden articles that guide you through practical upgrades and everyday solutions.